Flying fox

The flying fox is a striking cyprinid from the blackwater streams and forested rivers of Southeast Asia, where it is found in southern Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, Borneo, Sumatra, and Java. It is frequently confused with the Siamese algae-eater (Crossocheilus oblongus) and the false siamese algae-eater (Garra cambodgiensis), but can be distinguished by its distinctive colour pattern: a thick black horizontal stripe that extends through the eye and tail fin, bordered above by a gold band, and translucent fins with a distinctive bright white leading edge on the pelvic fins. Adults reach 16 cm (6 inches) and are long-lived, with a reported lifespan exceeding 15 years in well-maintained aquaria.

Despite its reputation as an algae-eater, the flying fox is an omnivorous aufwuchs grazer with a diet that shifts increasingly toward protein as it matures. It will consume some soft algae but should not be relied upon as a primary clean-up crew. Importantly, this species becomes increasingly territorial and pugnacious with age, particularly toward conspecifics and similar-looking species such as Crossocheilus and Garra. It is best kept singly in most home aquariums. A tank with base dimensions of 120 cm x 45 cm (approximately 240 litres) with a strong current, smooth rocks, driftwood, and robust planting provides a suitable environment. A tight-fitting cover is essential — flying foxes are prodigious jumpers.

Water parameters: 20-26°C, pH 6.0-7.5, with soft to moderately hard water. The diet should include sinking algae wafers, blanched vegetables such as courgette and cucumber, and regular offerings of live and frozen foods including bloodworm, Daphnia, Artemia, and Mysis shrimp. The flying fox is an attractive, characterful species for the intermediate aquarist, but its territorial nature and space requirements mean it must be chosen with careful consideration of the tank's existing inhabitants.